N. Paganini, Letter signed, 26 February 1829

Niccolò Paganini

Letter signed (“Nicolò Paganini”), to Eugenio Chiari at the bankers Arnstein and Eskeles in Vienna, 26 February 1829

writing from Berlin, he reports that he has never experienced a winter so bad, but that his cough has not troubled him as much as expected, and, since both he and his son Achille are feeling strong, he is composing music and preparing his concerts; he acknowledges receipt of a letter from Arnstein and Eskeles, which he will answer, explaining that he is waiting for one from a friend, asks him to handle the enclosed note in person, requesting a speedy answer in return (“...Compongo qualche cosa di nuovo, e vado a cominciar quà i miei concerti…”)

1 page, 8vo (c.21.5 x 16.5cm), address panel to verso, remains of blue seal, postmarked, Berlin, 26 February 1829, some browning, slight splitting at folds

This manuscript diverges in important details from the version published in the Epistolario, edited by R. Grisly (2006), no.320, p.456., which is based on a transcript in the Library of Congress. The letter that Paganini asks Chiari to take care of was addressed to the soprano Giuditta Pasta, asking the great diva about the practicalities and expenses involved in giving concerts in London. The concerts in Berlin that Paganini refers to began on 4 March 1829.